Algeria secured qualification to the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Austria in the final round of Group J matches.
Austria also advanced, finishing second in the group, while Algeria qualified as one of the best third-placed teams in the tournament’s expanded format.
High-Scoring Clash
Austria took the lead in the 28th minute through Marko Arnautović, before Algeria responded just before halftime with an equalizer from Rafik Belghali, ending the first half 1-1.
In the second half, Austria regained the lead through Marcel Sabitzer in the 54th minute.
Algeria quickly responded, with captain Riyad Mahrez scoring the equalizer in the 60th minute to keep his team in contention.
Late Drama
The match remained intense until the final minutes:
– Algeria scored a third goal late in the game
– Austria equalized in stoppage time
The 3-3 result ensured both teams advanced to the knockout stage.
Group Outcome
– Austria finished second in the group
– Algeria placed third with 4 points
– Algeria qualified among the best third-placed teams
Algeria will face Switzerland in the Round of 32, while Austria is set to play Spain.
Portugal and Colombia Share Points
In Group K, Portugal and Colombia played out a 0-0 draw at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.
The match was closely contested, with Colombia dominating the second half, but Portugal goalkeeper Diogo Costa delivered a strong performance to keep a clean sheet.
A late header by Davinson Sánchez for Colombia was ruled out for offside, preserving the draw.
Congo Also Qualifies
In the same group, DR Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1, securing qualification as one of the best third-placed teams.
Final Group K standings:
– Colombia: 7 points (1st place)
– Portugal: 5 points (2nd place)
– DR Congo: 4 points (qualified as third)
– Uzbekistan: eliminated
Colombia will face Ghana in the Round of 32, while Portugal meets Croatia.
Key Highlights
– Algeria and Austria qualify after 3-3 draw
– Mahrez scores crucial goal for Algeria
– Austria equalizes in stoppage time
– Portugal and Colombia draw 0-0
– DR Congo secures qualification
– Uzbekistan eliminated
Conclusion
The final round of group matches delivered dramatic results, with Algeria securing a historic qualification and Austria confirming their place in the knockout stage. Meanwhile, Colombia topped their group and DR Congo joined the next round, as the World Cup 2026 knockout stage continues to take shape.
